Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, March 13, 1994                   TAG: 9403130091
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-3   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: RICHMOND                                LENGTH: Short

POLICE NET 909 GUNS IN EXCHANGE

WWBT-TV anticipated receiving about 500 guns during the 6 1/2-hour "Silence the Violence" program in its parking lot, news director Harvey Powers said. Guns were exchanged for gift certificates worth $100 for a choice of groceries, electronics or athletic footwear.

"We've taken 900 guns off the streets," Powers said. "That's got to help a little bit."

The station, which donated the certificates, coordinated the program with city and state police. Police plan to make a record of the guns received before getting a court order to destroy them.

The station ran out of grocery certificates because so many people wanted them, Powers said. People were given letters that can be exchanged for grocery vouchers later, Powers said.

The exchange was limited to three handguns per person. Powers says a few people donated sawed-off shotguns and rifles, even though those weapons could not be exchanged for vouchers.

People came from as far as Fredericksburg, Williamsburg and Charlottesville to turn in weapons, Powers said.